There is something quite special about watching a live performance of a well-known musical, especially when it is held in the town in which you live. This Easter, Abingdon Operatic Society (AOS) are delighted to be treading the boards once more as they bring the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic ‘Carousel’ to the Amey Theatre stage.
In 1999, Time Magazine rated ‘Carousel’ as the greatest musical of the 20th century, saying: “They set the standards for the 20th century musical, and this show features their most beautiful score and the most skilful and affecting example of their musical storytelling.”
When the production opened in Broadway in April 1945, it ran for over 800 performances. ‘Carousel’ was brought to London’s West End in 1950 where it received equal success. By 1956, a Hollywood version of the stage show was filmed, starring Gordon MacRae and Shirley Jones.
The show’s story revolves around carousel barker Billy Bigelow, whose romance with millworker Julie Jordan comes at the price of both of their jobs. Billy participates in a robbery to provide for Julie and their unborn child, and then, after it goes tragically wrong, he is given a chance to make things right. A secondary plot line deals with millworkers Carrie Pipperidge and her romance with ambitious fisherman Enoch Snow.
There are many much loved and well-known songs in ‘Carousel’, including ‘If I Loved You’, ‘June is Bustin’ Out All Over’ and ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’.
AOS are looking forward to bringing an energetic and dynamic version of 'Carousel' to the stage having last performed it back in 1974. Performances are from Tuesday 11 April to Saturday 15 April 2023 at 7.30pm (plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee) at the Amey Theatre, Abingdon School. Tickets can be purchased online at abingdonoperatic.co.uk.
Abingdon Operatic Society is a friendly amateur musical group who aim to produce two musical shows a year to the highest standards of professionalism. They are a registered charity and, as well as providing enjoyment to their members, they are committed to bringing live musical theatre to their audience. The Society was established more than 60 years ago, and they want to go on for a further 40 years to celebrate their centenary. That will only happen if current members show the same commitment as their predecessors and new members join them and enjoy being part of the family that is AOS.
If you would like to get involved, either on stage or behind the scenes, you need to be over 16. Simply complete the application form on the website at abingdonoperatic.co.uk/index.php/join/. New member auditions will take place in April/May 2023, in advance of rehearsals for our next show, 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' – more details about auditions will be posted on the website closer to the time.
